12 fun things to do in London with kids

Plan an unforgettable trip for the whole family when you visit London. From seeing the stars at the Royal Observatory, to enjoying the greenery in the city’s many beautiful parks, to being in awe of the scale of the dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum, London is culturally enriching and packed with things to do with kids. Here are some of the best kid-friendly attractions the city has to offer.

The best things to do with kids in London at a glance

The best thing to do with young kids in London: Natural History Museum, Little Angel Theatre, Children Story Centre, Kew Gardens

The best activity for teens in London: London Aquarium, Royal Observatory, Natural History Museum, Chislehurst Caves

The best free family-friendly experiences in London: Kew Gardens, Diana Memorial Park, Tate Modern, National Gallery, Natural History Museum

1. Dive into the history of our planet in London’s Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum in London is home to a unique collection of over 80 million objects spanning 4.5 billion years! The fossils in the dinosaur gallery, Hope the giant whale, and the meteorite collection from outer space are just a few of the many offerings this world class institution has in store.

Who is it recommended for?

The Natural History Museum is one of the best museums in London for kids of all ages, but will be especially engaging for kids who are interested in history, animals, and the natural world.

Address and opening hours

Cromwell Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 5BD, United Kingdom. Daily 10:00 AM - 5:50 PM

2. Get up close with the animals when visiting London Zoo

With more than 700 animal species, the London Zoo will surely be home to your favorite animals. Visit the Penguin Beach, the country’s largest penguin pool, or see the Land of Lions to see rare Asiatic lions in a recreation of an Indian village, or head to Gorilla Kingdom to see what it’s like to be in a rainforest. The London Zoo offers a special experience for the entire family.

Who is it recommended for?

The London Zoo is perfect for animal lovers and young zoologists in the making. It is a fun family-friendly that has something for everyone.

Address and opening hours

Outer Cir, London NW1 4RY, United Kingdom. Daily 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

3. Take a trip to the Science Museum to see exhibitions that bring science to life

See live science shows and demonstrations by the Science Museum’s wonderlab team, or wander through the many exhibitions exploring different scientific areas such as medicine, mathematics and space, or settle in with a 3D IMAX experience at the museum’s Ronson Theatre, the museum is free to visit and packed with kid-friendly activities.

Who is it recommended for?

The Science Museum is perfect for the young scientist with its interactive experiences and world class exhibitions.

Address and opening hours

Exhibition Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 2DD, United Kingdom. Daily 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM.

4. Get cozy and enjoy a puppet show at the Little Angel Theatre

Visit the Little Angel Theatre to see high quality, innovative storytelling through puppetry that will be sure to spark the imagination of young minds. For kids who love theater experiences and want to get into puppetry, Saturday Puppet Club is a great opportunity to join a workshop and become a puppeteer themselves!

Who is it recommended for?

The Little Angel Theatre is great for younger children who are interested in storytelling and the arts.

Address and opening hours

14 Dagmar Passage, London N1 2DN, United Kingdom.

5. Be immersed by aquatic life at the SEA LIFE London Aquarium

At SEA LIFE London Aquarium you can delve into the marine world where you can go through a glass Ocean Tunnel, or visit the Seahorse Kingdom, or watch the sharks swim below while you try the Shark Walk. This is a perfect family friendly outing for those who want to get up close to marine life.

Who is it recommended for?

SEA Life London is a great place to visit for the entire family, but kids who are interested in marine biology and animals will have a thrilling experience.

Address

Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom. Monday - Wednesday, Friday: 10:00 - 4:00PM. Thursdays: 11:00 - 4:00PM. Saturdays: 10:00 AM - 6:00PM. Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

6. Visit the world famous Kew Gardens to learn more about plant life

The Kew Garden in Southwest London houses the largest and most diverse botanical collection in the world. Captivating at any time of year, the Kew Garden is a must-go family-friendly destination and London’s largest UNESCO World Heritage site.

Who is it recommended for?

The Kew Garden is perfect for young botany or plant lovers and kids interested in mycology.

Address and opening hours

Kew, Richmond, London, TW9 3AE. Daily: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

7. Take a photo with your favourite celebrity at Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds is a walkthrough attraction where you can get up close to many of your favorite icons and famous faces of the past and today. The museum has over 150 wax figures on display, along with unique experiences such as their Spirit of London ride and a Marvel Universe 4D movie.

Who is it recommended for?

Madame Tussauds is a perfect family activity for all ages.

Address and opening hours

Marylebone Rd, London NW1 5LR, United Kingdom. Sunday - Tuesday: 10:00am - 3:00pm, Wednesday - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

8. Head to a playground built as a memorial to Princess Diana with designs inspired by Peter Pan

This playground is popular amongst the Royal Parks because it is the perfect venue to play and explore on a sunny afternoon in the city. The centerpiece wooden pirate ship is a sight to behold, and there’s plenty of seating for parents to relax while the kids are having some fun.

Who is it recommended for?

The Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground is suitable for kids under the age of 12 and requires parental supervision while they are inside.

Address and opening hours

Kensington Gardens, Broad Walk, London W2 4RU, United Kingdom. The hours of operation for the playground change by the season so be sure to check before a visit.

9. Visit the historic home of British Astronomy at the Royal Observatory

Discover the history of British Astronomy as you marvel at the scale of UK’s largest telescope or peruse the exhibitions they have on display at the Royal Observatory. Make sure to take a picture standing on the Meridian Line with a foot on each hemisphere.

Who is it recommended for?

The Royal Observatory is a kid-friendly attraction that is fit for all ages. This will be very special for young astronomers and history buffs.

Address and opening hours

Blackheath Ave, London SE10 8XJ, United Kingdom. Daily 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

10. See the dinosaurs and roam the beautiful terraces of Crystal Palace Park

Take an afternoon to explore the family friendly Crystal Palace Park. There is so much to see and do here including exploring the Victorian maze, petting the animals at the children’s farm, and seeing massive dinosaur statues.

Who is it recommended for?

The Crystal Palace Park is fun for the entire family and suitable for all ages. London has a lot of green spaces in the city, so there are a lot of parks to choose from.

Address and opening hours

Thicket Rd, London SE19 2GA, United Kingdom. Daily 7:30AM - 7:00PM.

11. Visit a world class art gallery with the entire family at Tate Modern

Right along the River Thames, Tate Modern is a massive, world-class art gallery with much to explore for all ages. The building itself is something to marvel at and enjoy. Interactive and empowering activities like Tate Draw brings any kids drawing to life with the gallery’s digital sketch pads, and make sure to check out the UNIQLO Tate Play programming of art and activities, specifically tailored for families of all ages.

Who is it recommended for?

Tate Modern is a wonderful time and a great family friendly experience. You will find that there’s something to explore for all ages here.

Address and opening hours

Bankside, London SE1 9TG, United Kingdom. Daily 10:00AM - 6:00PM.

12. Excavate the Chislehurst Caves

Chislehurst Caves are intersecting, man made underground tunnels with unclear origins! Uncover the mystery for yourself and learn more about the history of this unique site.

Who is it recommended for?

Chislehurst Caves are kid friendly attraction but will certainly be worth the trip for teens and adults.

Address and opening hours

Thicket Rd, London SE19 2GA, United Kingdom. Daily 7:30AM - 7:00PM.

FAQs

What are the top family-friendly attractions in London?

The London Zoo is one of the best things to do in London with kids with so many animals in habitat. Another great family-friendly activity is London’s Kew Gardens, a lovely botanical garden that is a must-see on a sunny day.

What are the best museums for kids in London?

Tate Modern is one of the best kid friendly museums with lots of interactive displays and programs. Your kids can participate and be a part of the gallery by drawing on digital sketchpads, with their art projected onto the walls. Another fun museum for kids is the Natural History Museum where you can visit the dinosaurs as well as Hope the whale.

What are some fun outdoor activities for kids in London?

The Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground is Peter Pan themed and full of surprises for kids to discover and enjoy. Crystal Palace Park is another outdoor delight, perfect for an afternoon of exploration like the dinosaur statues and the lovely gardens.

Where should I take young children in London?

Take the kids to the London Aquarium where you’ll be immersed in aquatic life going through the Ocean Tunnel or taking a stroll in Shark Walk. Children will be in awe of the beauty of these sea creatures and it's a perfect spot for pictures too. Another great kid friendly attraction is Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground where children under twelve will find the Peter Pan themed playground to be great fun.